Final answer:
A chromosome is also known as a linkage group because it contains linked genes that are often inherited together. Linkage affects the inheritance of characteristics that tend to be transmitted together during meiosis, and is also a central concept in the Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Another name for a chromosome is a linkage group since it contains genes that are often inherited together. Genes that are located on the same chromosome are termed linked genes. Linkage is a fundamental concept in genetics which explains why certain characteristics are frequently inherited together. For instance, genes for hair color and eye color are often linked, leading to the common pairing of blonde hair with blue eyes and brown hair with brown eyes.
The reason linked genes are inherited together is that they tend to segregate together during meiosis. When alleles for these genes are located close to each other on a chromosome, they are less likely to be separated by the process of crossing-over, which is an exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis I.
The Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance supports that chromosomes carry genetic material, with segments known as genes coding for traits. Hence, understanding the relationship between genes, their location on chromosomes, and their behavior during meiosis helps in predicting inheritance patterns.